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For many students, Big Red Welcome events mark their first experiences on campus. As the project and event coordinator with the Office of Student Life, Kalan Walters knows the impact these events have on students, which is why she and her team spend months perfecting and planning these memorable moments.
University Communication and Marketing went behind the scenes with Walters and spoke to her about these efforts.
Can you tell us a bit more about your role?
As the projects and event coordinator with the Office of Student Life, my role centers around planning and executing a wide range of events that enhance the student experience and foster community across campus. I’m responsible for coordinating large-scale, campus-wide strategic student events such as Big Red Welcome, Family Weekend and Homecoming. These events require collaboration with multiple campus partners to ensure that programming is inclusive, engaging and reflective of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s values.
In addition to student-centered events, I also support internal initiatives for Student Life. This includes organizing staff-focused events such as the Staff Recognition Awards, the Student Life Holiday Party and ongoing staff connection events that help build a sense of community and appreciation within our division.
I also serve as a support to the director of strategic events, helping with project management, logistics and cross-functional coordination to ensure the successful execution of events from start to finish.
What does the preparation look like leading up to a new academic school year? Talk a bit about the behind-the-scenes work that goes into Big Red Welcome events.
Preparation for a new academic year, especially for Big Red Welcome, begins months in advance and involves a lot of behind-the-scenes collaboration and planning. I meet bi-monthly with four sub-committees made up of campus partners who focus on key areas: student connection events, advocacy and support, academic programming and marketing and communications. These teams help guide the direction of our Big Red Welcome events to ensure we’re meeting the varying needs of incoming students.
Each year, we use data from previous years to strategically introduce new programs that are tailored to students’ needs. This process involves collaboration across campus to bring together ideas from different departments.
Behind the scenes, I coordinate the logistics and details for our signature events for incoming classes of students. From managing timelines and venue setups to working with marketing on promotion and outreach, every detail is carefully planned to make sure students feel connected, supported and excited to start their journey at UNL.
Can you explain the importance of these welcome events and why students should attend?
Big Red Welcome is an important kickoff to the college experience. It is often the first opportunity for students to explore everything campus has to offer. From involvement opportunities to support resources, it gives students a preview of what their Nebraska journey can look like.
These events are a chance to connect with peers, try something new and start building a sense of community and belonging. Whether you're meeting friends, discovering a new interest or just enjoying the energy on campus, Big Red Welcome helps students feel at home. It’s also a great way to relax and have fun after the move-in process, giving students a chance to settle in, take a break and start the year on a positive note.
What is your favorite event to plan, and what makes this event special?
My favorite event to plan during Big Red Welcome is the Chancellor’s BBQ. Coordinating an event that serves over 4,000 students requires planning and collaboration across many areas, including the transition from the Tunnel Walk event, dining services, sustainability efforts and volunteer support from faculty, staff and administrators.
What makes this event so special is seeing students together, sharing a picnic-style meal and experiencing one of their first moments as a class. It’s one of the only times we see the entire incoming class together in one space, and I love being able to help create that memorable and welcoming moment for them.
What is something that people may not know, but would be interested to know about you, your team and the work you all do for the campus community?
One aspect of our work that many may not realize is the extensive and strategic planning that goes into creating a welcoming campus experience each fall. Planning for Big Red Welcome begins as early as January, allowing us to thoughtfully design programs that support students from day one. Simultaneously, our team is also coordinating other major campus traditions, including Homecoming and Family Weekend. These efforts are made possible through the collaboration of over 50 members across various planning sub-committees with a deep commitment to creating a unified campus community.
You are a 2016 graduate. As a former student, what does it mean to you to have a positive impact on past, present and future Huskers on campus?
It’s incredibly meaningful to have the opportunity to positively impact Huskers. I remember how important it was to feel connected to the campus community and making connections through involvements and activities at the beginning of the semester.
Signature moments such as Big Red Welcome, campus traditions and leadership opportunities played a pivotal role in shaping who I became, both personally and professionally. I’m truly grateful to now contribute to creating those same meaningful experiences for today’s students. Supporting them as they begin their journey and helping build an inclusive campus environment is truly rewarding.
Can you describe what it is like to play such a pivotal role in students’ experiences here on campus?
Playing a pivotal role in shaping students’ experiences on campus is both a responsibility and a privilege. I’m grateful that my own background in event planning led me to this position and to be part of such a dedicated team within Student Life. It’s exciting to contribute ideas and help design experiences that become lasting memories for students. I hope that through the events and programs we create, students find their ‘home away from home,’ especially after making such a significant transition to college life. Being able to offer that same support to current students makes my work fulfilling.
Outside of Big Red Welcome events and activities, what else can students look forward to throughout the year?
Beyond Big Red Welcome, students have several opportunities to engage on campus throughout the year. They can look forward to Family Weekend, where we invite their families and friends to experience a piece of their new home here at Nebraska. Homecoming is another highlight, featuring exciting events like Battle of the Bands, yard games, the Cornstock Festival and the iconic parade, celebrations that bring the entire campus together in Husker spirit. Additionally, students can connect through a variety of activities offered by Campus Recreation, participate in Recognized Student Organizations and engage with advocacy and support initiatives that promote inclusion, wellness and leadership. There is something for everyone to get involved with and find their place within the Husker community.
